Expectations vary widely and depend on what meals are provided by the host family. There are host families in predominantly Muslim areas who eat only halal food, host families in rural tribal areas who eat mainly vegetables and grains, and families in modern cities who eat mainly fast food.
If meals are included, you usually don’t have to cook, but you are welcome to help. Either in the preparation or in the cooking itself. Depending on the culture or lifestyle of the family, family members – including you – may be expected to prepare and eat meals together. In other families, it is common for only certain family members to cook. Culturally, you may be considered a member of the family, but it is customary to be treated as a guest. Try to respect this. But even a friendly “no” to your question of whether you can help can be meant politely and they will still be happy to have your help. Just talk about their expectations, ask or observe and you will find out over time how cooking is handled in your host family.
Remember that preparing meals is always a time for cultural exchange. You can get to know each other better through conversation and learn from each other. Even if you don’t have to cook, you can help in other ways. Help with shopping, do the dishes, take out the rubbish. There are many ways to help and it is always a sign of respect and willingness to integrate.
If you have the necessary cooking skills and can get the right ingredients, don’t hesitate to ask if you can cook something from your home country. Your host family will be delighted to receive a variety of dishes. And a wonderful cultural exchange can take place over a meal.
Speaking of special diets: If you have any special dietary requirements, intolerances or allergies, please let us know in advance. Allergy-free products are usually only available in larger cities and often the host family does not have the financial means to buy them, as they can be significantly more expensive. If you have a vegetarian or vegan diet, this can and should be discussed with your host family. In this way, the shopping habits for the meals can be adjusted accordingly. Offer to help prepare meals and help your host family adjust to what may be an unfamiliar situation. Not all countries and regions have special diets that are completely normal for you. The host family may not have had to deal with dietary issues before and may be worried about doing something wrong. Here and in general: talk about it. This will not only make your stay more relaxed, but will also help the host family to avoid misunderstandings.
However, local street food is not something you should miss out on. See our “Health tips to help you be a successful sports volunteer” page for what to look out for.
